The weather in Maryland from November through April changes quickly and sometimes unexpectedly.You can feel warm spring-like sunshine one day and shiver in a sleet storm the next. The topography rises from sea level on the eastern shore to almost 1000 kilometers in the Allegheny mountains. These elevation changes bring drastically different weather conditions across the state even during the same storm. Preparing for winter weather- whether driving to work or dressing the kids for school- requires advance planning. Rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow can occur in different areas across the state at the same time. The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Sterling, Virginia issues official winter weather watches, warnings and advisories for the entire state.An excellent source of up to date weather forecasts and warnings is NOAA Weather Radio.
There are excellent safety related web sites to help families prepare for the many challenges of slippery and cold winter weather. Here are some links to winter weather and driving safety information that include useful checklists and/or expert advice:
Winter Weather Safety in Maryland
(Note: we have an additional web page for Spring and Summer Severe Weather Safety)The weather in Maryland from November through April changes quickly and sometimes unexpectedly.You can feel warm spring-like sunshine one day and shiver in a sleet storm the next. The topography rises from sea level on the eastern shore to almost 1000 kilometers in the Allegheny mountains. These elevation changes bring drastically different weather conditions across the state even during the same storm. Preparing for winter weather- whether driving to work or dressing the kids for school- requires advance planning. Rain, freezing rain, sleet and snow can occur in different areas across the state at the same time. The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Sterling, Virginia issues official winter weather watches, warnings and advisories for the entire state.An excellent source of up to date weather forecasts and warnings is NOAA Weather Radio.
There are excellent safety related web sites to help families prepare for the many challenges of slippery and cold winter weather. Here are some links to winter weather and driving safety information that include useful checklists and/or expert advice:
NWS Winter Storm & Blizzard Checklists
NOAA Weather Radio Consumer Guide
Bridgestone Winter Driving School Tips
AAA Winter Driving Tips
NOAA Severe Storm Lab Winter Weather Precautions
CDC Extreme Cold Weather Prevention Guide
CDC Winter Weather Checklists
NWS Wind Chill Chart
Red Cross Winter Storm Planning Guide
FEMA Winter Weather Checklist